Anyone from Chicago?

[OldDirtyBernie]

We're planning on driving the family up to Chicago soon for a few days since the wife and kids have never been and I haven't been since I was in middle school.
My biggest question, if anyone could give some insight -
We've been trying to look into hotels in around around the city rather than staying downtown, but doing some research I'm seeing people say that in the area doing that isn't really feasible and it's better to stay downtown.
I do know we're planning on hitting up Navy Pier, Lincoln Park, and a few other of the big things to do downtown but also have some places we're wanting to do just outside of the city proper. Plus we obviously want to avoid any high crime areas and, from what I hear, extremely high parking costs.
We're already planning on riding the Metra line because I know both of the kids will enjoy riding on a train(yeah, I know...tourists...) but add to all of that the fact that I absolutely loathe driving in downtown-type areas to the point of having panic attacks when I have to at time.

[Vampiro138]

my suggestion, stay in Rosemont, drive to Jefferson Park, near Milwaukee and Lawerence Ave, theres a garage over at the train station behind the 7'11. and the Metra picks up at that jefferson park train station, I suggest while you are there getting a bus pass to get you around on public transit, take metra from jefferson park to Ogilvie which is downtown, Sears Tower is walking distance from Ogilvie which is nice, you can also catch a number of buses from there to State street, then catch the state bus to Navy Pier. Lincoln Park isnt downtown, but I would still suggest trying to take public transit over there caus parking near the zoo is awful!

[Vampiro138]

...also hotels may be crazy end of next month, 3 cons are happening the same weekend in Rosemont, Hollywood Show Chicago, Walker Stalker Con, and Heroes and Villains con. so if you are coming last weekend of March be aware of the stuff happening in that area.

[OldDirtyBernie]

Yeah, i had seen mentions about them while doing some planning. My wife is a huge fan of doing road trips and going to new cities, and it's been a long time since we've been able to, so I have a feeling I'd be dead if I made her wait that long.

Thanks for the heads up, though.

[paulbearer]

Balki : "Get outta the city !"

[brody]

Au Cheval claims the best burger in America.
Two options to avoid Willis Tower lines: The best skyline view of Chicago, by far, can be seen from the roadway between the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Museum

Alternatively, spend your money on a drink at the bar of the Signature Room, located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock building, which offers equally stunning views without the hassle. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see all of the city plus Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.